Parveen Bala, a member of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, has requested a formal report from the Fiji National University (FNU) regarding the Ministry of Infrastructure’s recommendation to demolish the unfinished Naiyaca campus in Labasa. During a recent committee visit to the site, concerns were raised over the university’s plans, especially after FNU executives provided updates on ongoing infrastructure projects and governmental fund utilization.
Merewalesi Naikatini, FNU’s Acting Deputy Director Capital, stated that the university sought the Ministry’s guidance and assistance on the matter. FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba reported that while some structures are safe, others pose serious safety risks and therefore have been cordoned off. She highlighted the heavy financial burden of renting multiple locations for educational purposes and indicated that the university would prefer to continue construction on the campus.
In response to the committee’s concerns, a request has been made for all relevant structural and engineering reports. This is aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability concerning the use of public funds in the $30 million project that began preliminary work in 2014. Full construction commenced in 2018 but was halted in 2019.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro recently stated in parliament that a structural review concluded the building was unsafe, which led to the recommendation to demolish it. This unfortunate situation has resulted in a recorded impairment loss of approximately $9.9 million, along with an additional $4.3 million for capitalized civil works carried forward.
Past articles about the Naiyaca Campus project reveal a history of challenges, including extensive delays stemming from its location in a flood-prone area and contractor financial difficulties. Despite these setbacks, there remains a hopeful outlook that with enhanced governance and oversight, the Naiyaca Campus could eventually contribute significantly to educational access in the Northern Division, thereby revitalizing the local community. The continued dedication to improving infrastructure suggests potential for future success and growth in the region’s educational landscape, despite current obstacles.